LISTED: All you need to know about Christmas pantos in our area

Kieran Davey

Portsmouth coastguard called to reports of a body near Chichester

It’s one of the staples of a traditional Christmas - cheering families, crazy characters and the odd celebrity thrown in for good measure.

Here’s all you need to know about the Christmas pantos in our area and how you can get your hands on tickets.

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Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

WHERE: Groundlings Theatre, Kent Street, Portsmouth

WHEN: Until December 31

WHAT’S THE STORY: This enchanted fairytale adaptation of the classic story features all the traditional elements - the handsome prince, hilarious dwarves and a wicked witch - but with a special Christmas twist.

HOW TO GET TICKETS: Call the theatre box office on 02392 737370 or go to groundlings.co.uk.

WHAT’S THE STORY: This year’s performance stars Vicki Michelle as The Fairy Godmother and star of the Chase, Anne Hegerty, as Blackweed. Follow Jack as he grows his magic beans into a huge beanstalk and finds a scary giant waiting for him.

HOW TO GET TICKETS: Visit kingsportsmouth.ticketsolve.com.

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Sleeping Beauty

WHERE: Ferneham Hall, Osborn Road, Fareham

WHEN: Until December 31

WHAT’S THE STORY: Hear’Say’s Noel Sullivan will be starring as Prince Valiant alongside CBBC actress Kay Purcell - of Tracey Beaker fame. And due to popular demand, Mark Siney is back to play Nurse Nellie.

HOW TO GET TICKETS: Visit fernehamhall.co.uk.

PRICES: £13 per ticket

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Santa Claus The Musical

WHERE: New Theatre Royal, Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth

WHEN: Until December 31

WHAT’S THE STORY: Former member of Brit Award winning boyband A1, Mark Read will be playing the role of Joe the Chief Elf. He’ll be joined by chart-topping singer and former Eurovision Song Contest star Nicki French in her role as Ice Queen.

Jason Sutton will bring his own brand of flamboyant fun to the role of Santa Claus’ PA, the beloved dame Miss Daphne Drift.

HOW TO GET TICKETS: Visit newtheatreroyal.com.

PRICES: Standard tickets from £16, discounts for groups.

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Red Riding Hood

WHERE: Station Theatre, Station Road, Hayling Island

WHEN: January 14-21

WHAT’S THE STORY: The Hayling Island Dramatic Society will be putting on their latest festive performance. Red Riding Hood has got a lot on her plate - not only is there a big bad wolf about, but he’s in cahoots with Titchivitch the witch. They’ve got a dastardly plan to steal Granny Hood’s goodies but who will help save the day?